re: Why is being a liberal/Dem/etc such a defining character?

Jordan Peterson spoke about this topic with regards to free speech.

It’s from a lack of individualism that they have. They identify as a liberal because that’s a group that they can easily absorb the characteristics of. It stems from a lack of critical thinking/reflection/life experiences. They then identify so strongly with this group, they are a mouthpiece for it and have no original thought of their own. Because of that, they don’t see free speech as a good thing. Their group needs to beat your group for power by shutting down your conversation, it’s not about the individual anymore.

If you haven’t learned about post-modernism, I would recommend it. It’s basically a vessel for Marxism/socialism. Very interesting, but scary stuff. Jordan Peterson speaks a lot about the idea.